April is National Pet First Aid Awareness month. It is an unpleasant truth that being a pet owner may mean having to deal with emergency situations. Understanding when and how to provide basic medical care to your pets is just as important as knowing how to provide basic care to yourself. Your pet may ingest a dangerous substance, experience injury, or have another unexpected health emergency.

The first step to providing first aid is having the supplies to respond to a situation. The American Veterinary Medical Association and The Humane Society of the United States each provide first-aid kit checklists on their websites.  First aid supplies can be purchased as a kit (prices vary depending on contents) or the supplies can be purchased separately. You should keep one in your home and, if you take your pets with you on adventures, one in your car or in a hiking/day pack. Both agencies recommend keeping veterinary emergency numbers, poison control hotlines, and medical records in a waterproof bag so they can be easily accessed.  A good kit should include: tweezers; bandages; cotton swabs; antiseptic wipes; cold pack; rubber gloves; emergency blanket; scissors; and alcohol pads. Some human medications can also be used on pets, although in smaller doses. You should consult your veterinarian on what is safe to give to your pet and in what situations.

Knowing how to use your supplies is the next step. The American Red Cross offers a pet first aid course. It’s 35 minutes long, offered online, and costs $25.00. You can register on their website. They also have a free app available on Apple and Android. Search “Pet First Aid Red Cross.” There is also free information available from the American Veterinary Medical Association website with quick links to help you respond to the most common issues including bleeding, burns, heatstroke, and other conditions. Your local veterinary office may also provide training or help you to find a class near you. It’s a good idea to review procedures frequently and before any emergency situations arise. Trying to learn how to assist during a scary situation can lead to dangerous mistakes. Remember, though, any time you need to administer first aid to your pet, you should always follow up with a veterinarian as soon as possible.             

Finally, you need to know what injuries and illnesses to tackle on your own and which should be immediately tended by a veterinarian. If you suspect your pet has ingested a poison, always call the pet poison hotline (ASPCA’s number is 1-888-426-4435) for advice. Minor cuts and scrapes can usually be cleaned at home and watched for signs of discomfort or infection (swelling, excessive licking). Signs of heatstroke should be attended to immediately by moving your pet to a cooler area and then seeking medical attention. In all cases, you should be aware that hurt or sick animals can often lash out, even at the most dedicated owners. Always keep your safety in mind and consider creating a makeshift muzzle before treating any injuries.

The idea of learning to treat your pet may feel overwhelming but it is a vital skill for the health of your furry loved ones. So, take the time to learn the basics, gather the supplies, and be prepared ahead of time. You and your pet will be thankful if and when the situation arises.